Trump Is ‘WEAPONIZING’ Antisemitism: Brad Lander on His Run For Congress

Quick Overview

Brad Lander, New York City Comptroller and candidate for Congress, stated that he would support recognizing a Palestinian state and actively fights against figures like Trump and those who weaponize antisemitism, emphasizing that true progressive leadership requires unity and confronting extremism, which is why he did not run for Mayor against Eric Adams and Zurain Mamdani.

Key Points: Lander decided not to run for NYC Mayor against Eric Adams and Zurain Mamdani because he believed it was necessary to unite the progressive movement against extremism. Lander supports recognizing a Palestinian state and strongly opposes the weaponization of antisemitism, citing the need to fight against figures like Trump. He is proud of his work as Comptroller, including protecting the city's pension funds from investments in Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. Lander asserts that the Democratic Party needs bolder leadership that is willing to confront issues directly, contrasting his approach with those of figures like Dan Goldman. He mentioned that his campaign raised $8 million in the mayoral race and that he has worked with both Adams and Yulin Niu, who endorsed him for Congress. Lander noted that many New Yorkers are fed up with the divisive rhetoric, such as that used by the far-right, and want leaders focused on unity and practical solutions. He expressed gratitude for the support he received from figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Jamaal Bowman, who he worked with in the City Council.

Context: Brad Lander, the current New York City Comptroller and a candidate for Congress in New York's 10th district, appeared on Mehdi Hasan's show to discuss his political decisions, including why he ultimately chose not to run for Mayor in the crowded Democratic primary. The conversation centered on his progressive values, his alliances with other progressive figures like Jamaal Bowman and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and his principled stance against political extremism and the weaponization of issues like antisemitism, contrasting his approach with that of candidates like Dan Goldman.